About Dharamshala
Experience a serene vacation exploring the exquisiteness of nature with a vacation in the picturesque Dharamshala. Situated at an average altitude of 1,475 meters above sea level, Dharamshala lies on the scenic stretch of land of Kangra Valley making tourists spellbound for its spectacular beauty. Often cited as the ‘Little Lhasa of India’, Dharamshala is popularly known as the holy residence of the exiled Tibetan monk Dalai Lama.
With the backdrop of the breathtaking Dhauladhar ranges, Dharamshala is the one of the most tranquil destinations which you will find in North India, the perfect amalgamation of natural beauty and culture. Surrounded by thick deodar cedar trees and the snow capped peaks which decorate the landscape, the quaint city is visited by thousands of tourists to beat the summer blues and explore the best places to visit in Dharamshala.
The city of Dharamshala is divided into two parts, the lower division is the Dharamsala town whereas the upper division is known as Mcleodganj. Blessed with spectacular scenes of nature, the calm and serene hill stations proudly boasts strong Buddhist influences with many quaint old monasteries located here. There are a lot of other attractions in Dharamshala like the charming St. John Church, headquarters of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Dal Lake, etc. that draws tourists from different parts of the country.
Dharamshala remains a distinct tourist destination in India attracting large crowds not only nationally but also internationally who come here to discover the striking Tibetan hub in India. For most ardent travelers, Dharamshala is a popular name on their travel wish lists due to its magnificent beauty and charming splendor of the landscape. So start packing up your bags and go to Dharamshala with a Dharamshala tour packages to behold one of the most scenic hill stations in India.
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Which are the best places to visit in Dharamshala?
Some of the best places to visit in Dharamshala are:
1. Dal Lake: This is another amazing place that is a must-visit for you. Its enchanting magnificence and quiet setting make it a standout amongst the most famous spots to see in Dharamshala. The staggering lake is encompassed by extravagant green deodar plants and snow-capped mountains. The lake is situated at a height of 1775 m and its tranquility and appeal draw in a lot of tourist.
Timings: Opens from 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
2. Kangra Fort: The Kangra Fort, which follows its inceptions to the antiquated Trigarta Kingdom is the biggest fortress in the Himalayas and likely the most seasoned fort in India. Witness dazzling history and great legacy at Kangra Fort, which is one of the best tourist spots here. Although the fort is mostly in ruins its beauty attracts a lot of tourists around the world.
Timings: Opens from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Price: The approximate price is INR 150 per person for Indians and INR 300 per person for foreigners.
3. Namgyal Monastery: Another amazing place that is a must-visit for you in Dharamshala is the Namgyal Monastery. The monastery is said to be the largest monastery housing 200 monks. Witness the prayer wheels, the décor, and the Tibetan-style architecture as you explore the monastery.
Timings: The monastery is open from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
4. Tsuglagkhang Complex: Situated on the Temple Road, the Tsuglagkhang Complex is a religious center and one of the main interests in Dharamshala. It was built when His Holiness Dalai Lama went to India for the first time in 1959. The complex is a standout amongst the most amazing spots to see in Dharamshala and includes Dalai Lama's abode and monastery.
Timings: Opens from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
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What all things can be done in Dharamshala?
Some of the things to do in Dharamshala are:
1. Paragliding: In Dharamsala, a number of places provide you with this thrilling activity. It is an incredible movement to enjoy if you pine for the adrenaline rush that comes with any adventure sports. The natural landscape of this zone makes it a much more interesting place for the tourist. A place where you can go for this paragliding activity are Dharamshala Flying Club etc.
Approximate Cost: Ranges between 2000 to 8000 Rupees per person.
2. Camping: The beautiful contours and the hilly terrain make for an incredible camping experience in and around Dharamsala. The clear skies and the fresh air enrich the camping experience and make it more enjoyable. The trail between Dharamsala and McLeodGanj makes for a great camping spot. Triund, Camp Chrysalid, Soaring Eagles Peaks, Youreka are few of the places where you can go out for camping.
Approximate Cost: Ranges between INR 2000 to 5000 per person.
3. Kareri Lake Trek: Kareri Lake is located approximately 40 kilometers North of Dharamsala and in the Dhauladhar Range. The route is filled with beautiful green vegetation and flora, unique to the Himalayas. To get here, you need to start trekking from Ghera village.
Best time: The best time to do this trek is during the month of April to June and October to January.
Approximate Cost: Ranges between INR 2000 to 5000 per person.
4. Visit the Kangra Fort: The Kangra Fort, which follows its inceptions to the antiquated Trigarta Kingdom is the biggest fortress in the Himalayas and likely the most seasoned fort in India. Witness dazzling history and great legacy at Kangra Fort, which is one of the best tourist spots here. Although the fort is mostly in ruins but its beauty attracts a lot of tourist around the world.
Timings: Opens from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Price: The approximate price is INR 150 per person for Indians and INR 300 per person for foreigners.
5. Visit the Monasteries: There are lot of monasteries in Dharamshala which you must explore during your vacation here. Some of them are:
- Namgyal Monastery which is located at McleodGanj, Dharamshala
- Gyuto Monastery which is located at a distance of 8 km from Dharamshala and 13 km from McLeod Ganj, Gyuto Monastery is located at Sidhbari on the main road to Palampur.
- Tsuglagkhang Complex is located at McleodGanj, Dharamshala
- Dip Tse Chok Ling is located at Camel Track Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala.
Is Dharamshala worth visiting?
What is famous in Dharamshala?
Dharamshala is popular among tourists for many things. It is especially famous for its scenic beauty. You could check out the dense deodar forests, Dhauladhar ranges, and Kareri Lake. The town is also known for the Tsuglagkhang Complex, the residence of the Dalai Lama. It is considered to be one of the best places to visit in Dharamshala. You can admire many monasteries, waterfalls, temples, historic forts, and museums here.
What are the best things to do in Dharamshala?
You could explore a wide range of attractions and activities in Dharamshala. Explore the Dharamshala Cricket Stadium, located at a height of more than 4700 feet. It is known to be the most scenic cricket stadium in the world. You could visit many ancient temples like Bhagsunath Temple, Jwalamukhi Devi Temple, and more. Head out for the adventurous Bhagsu Waterfall trek and enjoy the scenic views from the top.
What are some popular Dharamshala tourist places?
Dharamshala, in Himachal Pradesh, is home to many tourist places. Some of them include Dharamsala War Memorial, Dalai Lama Temple Complex, Dal Lake, and more. You could also visit the Gyuto Monastery, which is home to more than 500 Buddhist monks. Many tourists also opt for the Triund Trek, which offers stunning views of mountain peaks.
When is the best time to visit Dharamshala?
You could choose to plan a trip to Dharamshala at any time of the year. But, the best time to visit would depend on your personal preferences.
1 Peak Season: The Peak Season in Dharamshala begins in February and lasts till July. You could expect the average temperatures to range between 21 to 34 degrees. This season offers a comfortable experience to explore the most popular attractions in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh. Head out for a day trip to McLeod Ganj, the hometown of Dalai Lama. You could enjoy a wide range of adventure activities during this season including paragliding, mountaineering, trekking, and more.
2 Shoulder Season: You could also choose to plan your trip during the Shoulder Season (October to January). It is the perfect time to enjoy the views of snow-covered mountains. You will observe that the temperatures would stay between 5 to 16 degrees. Admire the beautiful Kalachakra Temple, a Tibetan temple, and offer prayers. You could also pay your respects at the Dharamshala War Memorial.
3 Waning Season: Dharamshala witnesses the Waning Season from August to September. You could observe the average temperature to range between 22 to 26 degrees. The town experiences low to moderate rainfall during this time. That being said, it shouldn't cause you any trouble during your sightseeing tours. You could enjoy visiting the Himalayan Art Museum and admire many historic Buddhist paintings. Enjoy clicking pictures at the Bhagsunag Waterfall, which becomes more scenic during monsoon.
How many days are required to visit Dharamshala?
Ideally, 3-4 days are enough to visit Dharamshala. You could visit many attractions like the Dalai Lama Temple Complex, Bhagsunag Temple, Norbulingka Institute, and more. If you're planning to explore further, we'd recommend dedicating 4-5 days to your trip. That way, you'll also be able to enjoy a Triund Trek, a day trip to Mcleod Ganj, and more.
Where to stay in Dharamshala?
You can choose from a variety of accommodation types available in Dharamshala. If you're looking for Homestays, you could book hotels like Mountain and Moon or Mcleodganj Diaries Homestay. You could also choose to stay in cottages such as The Lake Cottage by VRB Hotels, The Sojourn, Aviator's Bungalow, and more. Premium stays like Radisson Blu Resort, Portola Hotel (Parkside), Storii (ITC Hotels), and Amoha Retreat Dharamshala, are also available.
What are some of the best hotels in Dharamshala?
Dharamshala is home to many premium hotels that provide top-class amenities. You could pick one from a range of hotels in Dharamshala. Some of them include Radisson Blu, Chonor House, Lemon Tree Hotel, Himalayan Odyssey, and more.
Where is the Dharamshala stadium located?
The Dharamshala Cricket Stadium is located in the Dharamshala district of Himachal Pradesh. It is located at a height of approximately 4,700 feet and is known as the highest cricket stadium on the planet.
Does it snow in Dharamshala?
Yes, it snows in Dharamshala during the winter season. It begins at the end of December and stays till February. You will witness average temperatures ranging roughly between -1 and 12 degrees. Get a chance to admire snow-covered mountain peaks all around you.
Is it safe to visit Dharamshala now?
Yes, Dharamshala is safe to visit all round the year. It offers a wide variety of attractions and activities for tourists who visit from across the globe. However, we'd recommend keeping an eye out for the weather forecasts during winter. It is suggested to pack warm jackets and boots if you're visiting Dharamshala during the months of winter. During the monsoon season (July to August), it rains heavily in the town, and outdoor activities are not encouraged.
Is McLeodGanj in Dharamshala?
McLeodGanj is a town located in Dharamshala's upper region. It falls under the Kangra district in Himachal Pradesh and is popular for its monasteries, culture, and scenic views
When is the best time to visit Dharamshala?
The best time to visit Dharamshala is during the month of March to about mid-July. Summers are said to be very welcoming during this time.
The temperatures range somewhere between 22°C and 35°C. It’s also the ideal time for trekking tours on scenic trails dotted with flowers in full bloom.
How can I reach Dharamshala from Delhi?
If you are planning to travel to Dharamshala from Delhi by road then the drive from Delhi via Chandigarh, Kiratpur and Bilaspur should take around 12-13 hours. Dharamshala is also well-connected to Delhi and other parts of North India by bus. The journey is almost 520 kilometres from Delhi.
- By Air:
If you are planning to travel by air then the nearest airport is at Gaggal, about 13 kilometres away from Dharamshala. Gaggal airport connects Dharamshala to Delhi via Air India and Spice Jet flights.
- By Train:
If you are planning to travel by train then the nearest major railway station is at Pathankot, 85 kilometres away. There are numerous trains that also go to Jammu and Kashmir that stop by in Pathankot. You can take a taxi or bus from Pathankot to reach Dharamshala.
How far is McLeodGanj from Dharamshala?
McLeodGanj is just a short distance from Dharamshala, approximately 5 kilometers away depending on your exact location within Dharamshala. It's easily reachable by car, taxi, or even by foot if you enjoy a leisurely stroll amidst the beautiful surroundings.
What are the best places to visit in Dharamshala for couples?
If you're a couple on a vacation, Dharamshala has a lot to offer. You could check out the Norbulingka Institute and admire Thangka paintings with your partner. You could go for the Triund Trek, and enjoy a romantic stay at the campsites. Visit the Bhagsunag Waterfall and click amazing pictures with each other. We'd also recommend exploring the Naddi View Point, which offers stunning views of the natural landscapes.
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